The Hoffell Hot Tubs is a must-visit if you’re traveling through Iceland on a budget and want to partake in one of our age-old traditions of soaking in our natural hot springs.
In fact, the Hoffell Hot Tubs should definitely make it onto your trip itinerary if you’re looking for an affordable hot spring option with incredible views over the Land of Fire and Ice. In this article, we give you all the important information you’ll need to plan and prep for a visit to this historical hot spring hot spot.
What to Expect From the Hoffell Hot Tubs
Nestled along a rocky outcrop at the base of a mountain, sits 5 hot tubs overlooking the Icelandic landscape and the Hoffelsjökull Glacier (a glacier tongue of the largest glacier in all of Europe, Vatnajökull). These hot tubs are man-made but use natural hot spring water. While man-made, one shouldn’t confuse a hot spring experience at the Hoffell Hot Tubs with a visit to one of our geothermal “resorts”.
The Hoffell Hot Tubs is on private land and is completely family-owned. So, the mere fact that the family allows the public to use the hot springs is a privilege, not a right. And while the family has tried to make it as nice and comfortable for visitors as possible, they certainly can’t stack up to global commercial conglomerates.
That’s why you’ll find basic amenities and facilities such as changing rooms, an outdoor shower, and toilets at Hoffell. For other amenities or facilities such as spas, saunas, and restaurants, you’ll have to visit one of the larger geothermal pool “resorts”.
How Did the Hoffell Hot Tubs Come to Be?
The man-made Hoffell Hot Tubs you see today are not what marked the beginning of having a relaxing hot spring soak here. Although the hot spring water was a fairly recent discovery (in 2000), it has been enjoyed ever since, just in a different form.
Initially, the children and the workers on the farm used a 40 square meter fish tub to enjoy the warm waters in. But the experience with the spectacular views soon drew attention as those who enjoyed the hot spring couldn’t stop talking about it. As popularity increased, the family decided to give the site a little makeover and open it to the public.
Where are the Hoffell Hot Tubs in Iceland?
As the name suggests, the Hoffell Hot Tubs can be found in Hoffell, just 10 kilometers north of a town called Höfn in Southern Iceland. Reaching the Hoffell Hot Tubs is very easy if you use our main road and popular road trip route, the Ring Road, since it lies just off Route 1.
When Can You Visit the Hoffell Hot Tubs?
You can come to relax in a Hoffel Hot Pot any day of the week, from 10:00 in the morning till 21:00 at night. Just double-check opening hours before heading out since the operating hours of many activities and attractions on the island tend to differ throughout the year, depending on the season.
Also keep an eye on the Icelandic road conditions since sudden road closures may derail your Hoffel Hot Tub plans, and check the Iceland weather forecast so as to not get caught in bad weather conditions (the Hoffell Hot Tubs are an outdoor venue, after all).
What Does It Cost to Visit the Hoffell Hot Tubs?
Although a fee is charged for using the Hoffell Hot Tubs it doesn’t even come close to the hefty price tag that comes with admission to some of our other geothermal pools.
Entrance to Hoffel will only cost 1,000 ISK (+/- $7.20/€6.75) for those 9+ years of age, and those 8 years and younger can enjoy the tubs free of charge (with adult supervision, of course). Knowing that the money goes to help the family keep the Hot Tubs well-maintained and open, also makes one pay that money with a smile.
Take a Break at the Hoffell Hot Tubs While Exploring the South Coast
The Hoffell Hot Tubs make for the perfect pitstop along a road trip exploring Iceland’s south coast. If you rent an RV in Iceland, you can either drive Route 1 down the coast for an exclusive South Coast road trip or have it form part of a bigger Ring Road road trip around the island.
Traveling in a motorhome opens up a whole new world of convenience and a unique way of exploring. Plus, if you’re already planning on visiting Hoffell because of its budget-friendly benefits, you’ll love the savings a motorhome brings when booking spots at our beautiful but affordable campsites all around the country. But whatever your preference, hit the open road and come soak in the relaxing warm waters of the Hoffell Hot Tubs while soaking up the spectacular views.
